What's the news?
Mercedes-Benz's new SUV has arrived in Ireland, with prices for the 170hp GLC 220d starting at €50,280. There's also a 204hp GLC 250d version, with extra power and torque, retailing at €52,055. Both models come with 4Matic four-wheel drive as standard and they'll be followed by other variants, including a plugin hybrid.
The GLC replaces the old GLK, but that model was never sold here so in effect this is a brand new Mercedes for us, and a rival to the BMW X3, Lexus NX and Audi Q5. It's built on the same platform as the C-Class saloon but with a longer wheelbase.
Customers can choose from three equipment lines - Standard, Exclusive and AMG. Exclusive line cars are fitted with 18-inch wheels whille AMG line versions come with 19-inch wheels and AMG-styled bumpers.
Standard safety and optional equipment includes Attention Assist and Collision Prevention Assist plus items such as adaptive cruise control, adaptive brake assist, Blind Spot Assist, electronic stability and cross wind assist.
Describing the GLC as one of the 'most complete' vehicles ever launched by Mercedes-Benz, Ciaran Allen, the company's sales manager for passenger cars said: "the GLC is a model for which we have been waiting, filling a void in our model range in a way that will appeal to all fans of the SUV."